Stonington police continue to investigate dog attack

Stonington — Police are continuing to investigate the attack on a woman by a large dog Sunday afternoon at the Marriott Residence Inn on Route 27.

Police responded to the hotel at about 3 p.m. Sunday for a report of a dog attack. When an officer arrived, he was forced to shoot the animal after the dog bit him and the dog's caretaker was unable to get the dog under control.

Capt. Jerry Desmond said Monday the victim in the attack sustained serious injuries, but that privacy laws prevent him from disclosing more. The woman was taken to Lawrence + Memorial Hospital. He said the dog, which appears to be a pit bull, is still alive.

Desmond said he did not know what the relationship between the victim and the dog's caretaker was. He did say the dog's owner and the caretaker were related. He did not say where they are from.

He said the injured officer would be returning to work soon.

The fate of the dog is uncertain. Desmond said police will work with its owner, and eventually the state, before any decision about the dog is made.

A Groton Town animal control officer used a noose attached to a long pole to guide the animal into a truck. The animal was taken to receive medical treatment.

The hotel, which was not evacuated during the incident, allows guests to have pets in their rooms. Officials at the hotel referred all questions to police.